Plastic not fantastic - Family friendly ideas to reduce waste

There’s been a lot of buzz about our harmful impact on the planet. In recognition of World Environment Day we’ve got some great ideas for families to reduce their plastic waste.

What’s the big deal?

Key figures such as David Attenborough have recently shone the light on the devastating impact plastic waste is having on the environment. His award winning programme Blue Planet II raised public consciousness and has encouraged many people to do their bit to protect the environment. With over 300 million tonnes of plastic being used throughout the world each year and a truck load entering our oceans every minute it’s time to change.

We’re here to help with these top tips to reduce plastic waste.

Plastic audit

Start by noticing what plastic items you use and throw away. Sounds gross, but take a look at what you’re throwing away each week. It’ll probably surprise you. Are there any items you could do without, or replace with other items? Why not get rid of plastic milk containers by setting up a delivery with glass bottles from your local milk supplier (door-to-door service and great for local business too - win win ).

Keep it fresh

The tupperware revolution was a revelation for keeping food fresher for longer, but are you living in the dark ages? Instead of a plastic tub keep leftover food in a bowl with a small plate on top and pop it in the fridge. Alternatively, keep your glass bottles back to use for at home storage. If you’re out and about think about using stainless steel instead of plastic lunch boxes, you could try these reusable lunch bags or even go cosmo with bento or tiffin boxes?

Naked shopping

So, plastic free shopping aisles’ might not be a thing yet in the UK, but why not start at the source and reduce plastic packaging even before you buy. Where you can, eliminate packaging entirely. Chose loose fruit and veg rather than the pre-portioned bags. If you bring your own reusable bags to put them in, you’ll be even more eco-friendly. The added bonus is that this can help reduce food waste too as you’re only taking as much as you need. Take your own containers to the delhi / fishmonger / butcher - you get the best items here rather than on the shelves too! Many items just can’t or don’t come packaging free. Choosing glass or paper packaging options and bigger packs can still help to reduce plastic waste.

That’s a wrap

Is cling film your weapon of choice for packed lunches and leftovers? There are loads of different options that significantly reduce our plastic footprint. Use aluminium foil rather than cling film to keep food fresh. Foil is both reusable (yes, you can wash it up and use it again!) and recyclable. Or why not try beeswax paper instead for wrapping up sandwiches?

Hopefully this will give you some family friendly ideas to reduce plastic waste. Let us know if you have any other tips at fun@barracudas.co.uk.